Paediatric trigger fingers: a 47-year experience

Abstract

Paediatric trigger finger is rare compared to adult trigger finger or paediatric trigger thumb, and the aetiology is unclear. Proposed causes include local trauma, anatomical anomalies and systemic conditions. The aim of the present study was to detail the anatomical causes of surgically treated paediatric trigger fingers and provide an operative algorithm based on the anatomical findings. A total of 76 trigger fingers in 38 patients were identified retrospectively at our institution between 1975 and 2022. In total, 41 fingers in 26 patients had anatomical variations. A nodular thickening on the tendon, similar to Notta’s nodule in trigger thumbs, was the most common anatomical cause. Abnormal decussation of the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon was the second most common variation. The recurrence rate was significantly lower after resection of one slip of the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon compared to other surgical techniques in these patients. We recommend that surgeons assess for possible anatomical variation during surgery for the trigger finger. Level of evidence: IV